As a mother, I always hoped that I would have a good relationship with my daughter. I've got to say here that I worry about that because my relationship with my own mother left a lot to be desired.
My daughter is in my prayers almost all the time (as is my son). I strive to hear her voice and not mine as a 10 year old. Sometimes I succeed and sometimes I don't.
I also realize that there are influences beyond the front door that have great impact on the way my daughter sees me and the family and the world at large. I do my best to monitor those influences, but hey, she goes to a public school, she has access to the internet, she reads (A LOT), and she talks with folks quite comfortably.
Last night, as she was getting ready for bed, my 10 year old daughter came to me and said, "Can we talk?" I said, "Of course." She said, "In my room?" Off we went. I wasn't sure what was on her mind, but it seemed pretty serious. My beautiful, intelligent, sensitive daughter asked me if we could share about our days. Yep. She wanted to tell me (and have me JUST listen) and then she wanted to hear about my day. Wow! Of course, I said YES!
She shared about her day (pretty rough) and I commiserated with her. She seemed so relieved that I hadn't offered advice or admonition. Then, she did the most amazing thing to me...she looked me directly in the eye and asked me about my day! Seriously. I was faced with a decision. Just how authentic was I prepared to be with my 10 year old?
I decided I could be fairly authentic to my day. It had been full of "big" emotions for me, tiring in their intensity. I shared that. It felt wonderful.
The result? Prayers answered (for now). Hope instilled for my relationship with my daughter. Love it!
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